Roadside safety guide

What to Do While Waiting for a Tow

Your first priority is staying away from moving traffic and other immediate hazards. The safest action depends on the road, shoulder, weather, vehicle position and whether anyone is injured.

Quick answer

Turn on hazard lights, move away from traffic when it is safe, and call 911 first for an injury, crash, blocked lane, fire, leaking fuel or immediate danger. Then call Camden County Tow at 573-316-5005 and keep your phone available.

01Move away from traffic
02Share a precise location
03Keep your phone available
04Call 911 for danger

Make yourself visible

Turn on hazard lights. If the vehicle can be moved safely, get it as far from the travel lane as conditions allow. Do not stand between the vehicle and passing traffic or remain in a place where another vehicle could strike you.

Call emergency services when needed

Call 911 before a tow company when anyone is injured, a travel lane is blocked, the vehicle is on fire, fuel is leaking or there is another immediate roadway danger. Follow instructions from emergency personnel.

Send a useful location

Share the road name, direction of travel, nearest crossroad, exit, mile marker or business. A map pin can reduce confusion on US-54, Route 5 and unfamiliar lake roads.

Prepare for the tow conversation

Have the vehicle year or type, condition, keys status and intended destination ready. Mention a ditch, soft ground, steep slope, damaged wheel, low clearance or locked gate as soon as possible.

Prepared by Camden County Tow • Last reviewed

Camden County Towing and Recovery branded light-duty tow truck
Information prepared by Camden County Tow from practical lake-area towing and property-service experience.

Camden County Tow

Real trucks behind the direct tow line.

The fleet photographs on this site show Camden County Tow equipment. When you call, share the exact location, vehicle condition and any access concern so the right service can be discussed.

About Camden County Tow
Camden County Towing and Recovery
Practical guidance from Camden County Tow

Written for Lake-area drivers and property decision-makers. Individual conditions and service availability vary, so call with the facts of your situation before acting on general guidance.

Straight answers

Frequently asked questions.

Should I stay inside the vehicle?

There is no single answer for every roadway. Consider traffic, shoulder space, weather and the vehicle’s position. Follow emergency personnel instructions and move away from traffic only when it is safe.

What if I am stopped in a travel lane?

Call 911 immediately and describe the exact location and hazard. Turn on hazard lights and follow the dispatcher’s safety instructions.

Can I send my phone location?

Yes. A map pin plus the road and direction of travel can help identify the correct location.

What number should I call for Camden County Tow?

Call the direct 24/7 tow line at 573-316-5005.

Call for a tow573-316-5005